Syria Extends Major Offensive as Russian Missiles Hit Enemies

October 8, 2015 12:27 PM

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BEIRUT — Syrian troops and allied militia backed by Russian airstrikes and cruise missiles fired from warships attacked rebel forces on Thursday as the government extended a major offensive to recapture territory in the west of the country.

Rebel advances in western Syria earlier this year had threatened the coastal region vital to President Bashar Assad's control of the area and prompted Russia's intervention on their ally's side last week.